With Police now encrypting their frequencies, I feel like we are reaching the end of an era. I still remember my realistic scanner that could pick up cell phones and wireless home phones lol the good old days.
Yeah, here in the UK near everthing has gone digital, pickings are real slim. A limit search normally just reveals lots of digital noise. If you are into listening to aircraft you can fill your boots, and listening to hams moan about the weather..so much of the real entertainment has gone encrypted. Sad to see it go.
@@MrRadiorobot Just because it'd digital, doesn't mean it's encrypted though. This radio can also handle digital channels of course. I don't know how common encrypted is in the UK but you can look it up and see.
I got the SDS 100 back in November 2023. I had Uniden program it for me. It seems to do good. I think my Radio Shack Pro 96 is a little better. I had the Pro 96 programed for me by a Firman that lives here in town. I'm up here in North East Ar. Jonesboro. So when you stared talking about AWIN I thought You must live in Ar. Glad you made this video. It's the only one I have found that goes into great detail about the radio. Thanks!
Love the Review. I have the 436 with all the upgrades and cannot afford to get the SD 100. But I love how clear the display on the 100 looks. Living in The Bronx New York there are a zillion Police and Fire and EMS to listen to but after years of listening to them I got bored with them. I do enjoy listening to the Security in my complex of building where I live and to the Mall and stores. I find it interesting hearing them talk and the things they talk about.I also enjoying going to new places and covertly using the scanner to find the frequencies they use to communicate. I guess I like the hunt. I put the 436 in Close Call mode and set the scanner to record. Most of the time I am also listening with my ear phones. The scanner is in a pocket or side pouch hidden from view. I may even act like I am listening to music by moving my head. It is awesome when you hear chatter when on the hunt. I try to verify that the chatter is coming from the store or mall by listening for it coming from Security or store personnel radios. Once I have the frequency I will add it to my scanner frequencies. Such is my life but it gives me something to look forward to when I go shopping with the wife.
Good info. I think we all enjoy the hunt when using the scanners. I like listening to airband. I've heard some interesting things on there over the years. It's usually just giving altitude, and ride conditions. But every now and then they will call with a medical emergency or an unruly passenger. Take care. Thanks for the comment!
For Alex , The BC996P2 is a VERY SOLID radio with a great viewing screen with many colors to choose from. It is a great receiver, I monitor NYPD and FDNY in Ct 70 miles NorthEast of New York.
Congratulations - you have good antenna equipment. And in practice, what is the serif distance through the close call function of a portable radio station working closely for transmission? I caught on 436 in the battlefield at 200m
I just bought this scanner yesterday and it’s seriously the best scanner I’ve had. I’ve had the homepatrol 1, various uniden analog scanners, BCD996P2, digital RadioShack scanner, other uniden portables; but this thing is awesome. I live in Phoenix, AZ and scanning here is known to be incredibly difficult, but this is VERY easy to use and well worth the money. 100%.
This is the Best Uniden SDS 100 video hands down, there is another out there that's an hour and a half it was a complete waste time, great job with this video !! Thank You -
My SDS comes in today, most of the Uniden radios you displayed in your video I own. Your video is awesome to now get me started with the radio out of the box - Thanks Again for the clear, concise video. - Tony
Awesome! I love getting a new radio! I know you're excited to get it. Let me know what you think about it once you've had the chance to play with it some.
Nice review- Thank you! My SDS100 was ordered today. I have a 536 at home, but needed something for my commute to work, and my work may have me change roles if we encounter a multi-jurisdictional incident, so it would be nice to have something at my desk if things are developing...
Nice looking scanner which performs well on digital trunking but insensitive on analog frequencies. Price is a bit high for a scanner that monitors less than a 436HP. I hope Uniden improves on this 1st Gen IQ SDR design.
I received my sds100 last week. To replace my pro 106. 2 weeks ago I tried the Unication G4. I did not like the g4. For one thing it was not programmed the way I requested. I asked the "pro" some questions regarding my issues and could not get answers. I called Unication tech support twice with no responce. Sent the g4 back. Received the sds100 and very happy with simulcast reception. I also got the remtronics 800 antenna. I programmed it using zip code and Butels536 software and sentinel software. Still navigating the options but love the reception. One county is not close and it past the test. I live in NY and ordered from Scannermaster. Free shipping no tax. 🤓😁👏🖒
This video was really helpful to someone like me (55yrs with ADD). I’d have paid $29.99 for your video back in the day when DVDs were sold with these “how-to” videos. Your voice and communication style made listening easier. Downloaded this on liked and subscribed.
Thanks Matt for the great review and tutorial. I just picked up this radio from Ham Radio Outlet in Anaheim, California. They gave me a pretty good price of $599.00 after knocking off $50.00 for driving down and picking up in-store. Yes, I did pay tax, but it still seemed like a good deal. The manual was a little confusing so I appreciate the way you went through every feature step-by-step. I think this is a great scanner.
This was a great review. Your camera work is good and clear and more importantly, the information you give is very useful and thorough. The audio is very good as well which is important to me as I have difficulty hearing. Thank you for a great review.
That was an awesome review. I'm ready to get one. My local towns are encrypted. But lots of out lying areas including NJSP are still in the clear. Would you be able to "coach" me up on some?
Ok so, my last scanner was the TRX-1. I decided to go with the SDS100. And Oni64 you are totally right. Pretty soon the law is going to make it hard for us "Ambulance Chasers" to listen in on the action. But until then I'm going to enjoy the action while I can.
Holy balls!!! My dad has always handed me a pre programed scanner for years now. I have 3 of the handheld models you showed us, the most recent being the one you are demonstrating. I know absolutely nothing about how to use these except for turning it on and listening. When i have problems, my dad is my guy. I have so much to learn because unfortunately my pops ain't gonna be around forever @((( thanks for the vid. Subbed
Great video... your the best.. everybody should take notes.. very detailed and informative about a new sophisticated device and your the only one that has such a video..I just ordered one and this video is my manual...
WOW - What an incredible video - THANK YOU!! Really impressed with the overview is perfect for a new owner of an SDS100. Look forward to more videos. This is a great long full coverage video. Would love to see some short videos on things like GPS hookup and use in a mobile setup...etc. Thanks again. Are those colors you have custom or was that default on the COLOR Trunk Detail Screen?
Thank you.. I am about to purchase one of these. I stopped because the programming seemed overwhelming compared to my 15 year analog trunking 800 MHz... You made it seem a lot more user friendly. But I have come to the conclusion that this system is very vast in it's capacity. I will simply have to take a day at a time. Oh... how many years you think before it is outdated with new bands..
I think this scanner will be good for several years. Most scanners can be used for years to come. The change in radio systems come from time to time and there’s no way to predict that.
It seems to me you know a lot about scanners I appreciate you sharing your knowledge with us what I'm looking for is to get into the encryption code people says it's illegal it is not to get on there and monitor if you can get in there it's perfectly legal
Hey neighbor! Union County, Arkansas here. Very surprised to see a very local CZcamsr and scanner hobbyist when researching scanners. I’m almost decided on buying the SDS100. It will be my first scanner in 12 years. I was a dispatcher many many years ago, and am looking to get back to monitoring local radio traffic as a hobby. I think the SDS100 would be a good starting point, because it’s portable and I can use it in the truck or at home. Most scanner programming lingo is all foreign to me anymore, since the switch to digital, but I’ve been doing a lot of research. I’ve noticed that most of Union County has converted to MotoTRBO DMR (I think), and I know that UCSO uses AWIN as a secondary radio. RadioReference.com doesn’t indicate that any of the frequencies are encrypted, but I’m still not 100% convinced. Are you aware of any encryption in Union County? UCSO, El Dorado PD, El Dorado FD/EMS, AGFC, ASP and AWIN will be my main reason for purchasing a scanner. It would be pointless to make such an investment if any of these agencies frequencies are encrypted.
AWIN is not encrypted as far as I know. I would be willing to bet that the MotoTRBO is encrypted. Everything that uses MTROBO in every county surrounding me including Drew uses encryption.
Monitoring Reviews I found a post on radioreference forums from back in April 2019 where a user indicated that they were listening to Union County SO and El Dorado Police and Fire MotoTRBO DMR frequencies. Check it out and see if you think they mean that they are non-encrypted: forums.radioreference.com/threads/union-county.383059/post-3111283
Thanks for taking the time to make this helpful video . I just watched your video and was going to buy it but then I just saw they are indeed , as you mentioned , putting out the Uniden SDS200 bass/ mobile unit . Price , photo and specs are not available but the Uniden web-site does state there will be enhancements to the SDS100 ... So I think I will wait a bit before I decide on the which model I want .
Just watched your video. Great information, great presentation, well explained! And yes, I will be getting the SDS100 pretty soon. Thank you, Michael in Garland,TX
Michael Gage don't buy it because now most police frequencies are going to be encrypted and it's impossible to listen to because no one has produced a encrypted police scanner if they do you won't be able to afford it maybe you can but I haven't seen a encrypted police scanner
When updating the firmware, it times out. I turned off my AV and firewall, thinking this was the reason, but still getting the "timed out" error. The database was able to update with no issue. I have version 1.04.01.
Well it’s been a while since you did a scanner review that I can find, sure hope you will be doing an update on your scanners pros and cons. Please let us know if you have something in the works!, Thank you
I have a 436hp right now and it works ok. I monitor Arkansas wireless information network and in my area we have simulcast and it causes things to be not understandable sometimes. I plan on getting the sds100 soon because it is supposed to work better with simulcasting and it seems superior in many other areas. I’ve had the 436 since March so I’m thinking it’s about time for an upgrade to what seems like the ultimate handheld scanner. And this was also a great in depth review that helped me understand this scanner more.
I bought my SDS in June and thought I knew a lot about it, man was I wrong. I will have to watch your video several times to learn more about the features. Thanks for taking the time, I hope you will do more. 🤞 The antenna you are using do you have a link or did I miss it?
Monitoring Reviews I like the detailed display, I see you added noise and error to your display what are the reasons for doing that? What details on the display do you delete to add them? Thanks
ERR is the the percentage of digital data that decodes with an error. It gives me an idea signal quality. 0 indicates you're getting the best possible audio quality. Higher ERR rate, the more the audio will degrade and garble. According to UPMAN on a RadioReference.com post "Note that NOISE is the absolute value of the output of the digital audio high-pass filter. There is no "unit" associated with it. Basically, it is a level corresponding to the amount of high-frequency audio present in the demodulated signal. The higher the number, the more high-frequency audio is present." And I can't recall what (if anything) I removed to add those 2 items on my screen. Hope that helps. Basically, I added them to look cool :)
Monitoring Reviews I actually just ordered one! I use an APX8000 for my usual monitoring since most everything in LA is P25 conventional. But my existing scanners (346xt/BCT15) are snaking only, it was time to upgrade. Your video was the reason I switched.
This is a very good Review way better than that silly Scanner School guy who is clueless. A couple of notes. You show all the colors you can choose but then you kept defaulting back to a single color. Does that affect batter life such as using multiple colors. I was gonna asked about the battery life but you finally covered that at the very end. You made mention of it picking and auto scanning stuff that you did not want to monitor including the next state but if you set your RANGE less then shouldn't that take care of it. Maybe change your range to only 5 miles.
One thing to Consider is , Scanner like Uniden and Whistler do not scan the Entire Radio Spectrum, they have very Noticeable gaps in coverage, and Scanners do Not scan below 25 MHz or above 1300 MHz . However a Handheld Receiver can tune 29 KHz continually to 5 GHz ( cellular) locked out. Scanners just pick up a Tiny Portion of the Radio Spectrum. A good Handheld Communication Receiver is worthy of Consideration.
Nice set up! Check out the BC125AT if you want an excellent VHF High Lr airband scanner. It is an excellent receiver. One of the best for those bands I’ve ever used. For around $85 I don’t think it can be beat. amzn.to/2QfodRt and paired with the Diamond RH77CA antenna, it is awesome amzn.to/2OlwJAV I don’t think there is a better combo for the price. (Affiliate links)
It's kind of late, but I just bought the SDS100 a month ago (Feb 2021), and this video has helped me a lot. One thing that hasn't been covered is the purpose of the micro USB port. I'm using the later USB port to recharge the battery, but I haven't seen anything on what the micro USB port is for. The reason I ask is because in another video, the author took the SD card out to program it on the desktop, then reinsert it and off we go. I'd like to not take the card out/in and instead use the micro USB port. Is there a way to do this?
I really appreciate your tour of the scanner. I actually got an sd200 but they are basically the same unit in different size 'boxes'. You kinda zipped through everything quickly but I've got something to go by now.
Hi Matt, nice review. Do you prefer the SDS100 or SDS200 more? I know it’s been over a year now since you posted this but curious now that you have had it awhile. Thanks!
So I have a RadioShack Pro-197 Digital Trunking scanner, I’m looking for a handheld that would get the same stuff and I would like that without such a hefty price tag, any recommendations?
Reception on a Scanner is the same either Handheld or Mobile Scanner, it’s all about the Antenna. You can easily use a Handheld Scanner with a roof mounted antenna and it will perform the same as a mobile scanner with a roof antenna, it’s a question of space, and portability, I can easily disconnect my Handheld Scanner and use it in my car with trunk antenna or outside with a High Gain Triple band antenna. You really can’t make a mobile scanner portable, not practical. All that said, Scanner are just OK for receiving, but a Communication Receiver will OUTPERFORM a Scanner easily, even if it’s a Handheld Receiver. #1 - the Receiver is more sensitive and does NOT overload like a Scanner. #2 - Receiver have built in Filters to reduce noise, specially with CW, Air AM band, and others. # 3 - Receiver Today like the ICOM and AOR can Receive Digital Transmissions BETTER than a Scanner. The limiting factor with Receivers is , they don’t Trunktrack, but can still listen to Digital mode.
I like to know do this radio feel tough and rugged like a Motorola I've been waiting for years for Uniden to make a tough solid radio that doesn't feel like cheap plastic
It feels nice. It does not feel like a Motorola radio. It is a scanner and does have a plastic feel, although it is a nice feeling radio it is not as rugged as a professional radio.
So I bit the bullet. I can't say the manual for it is the best manual I have seen, didn't even tell me what direction to put the battery in, had to watch a video. Reading the manual and watching your vid. I must be missing something, while it is scanning, how do I quickly add that feed to a favorite. I think I have a favorite set up (0). Just trying to get the local things near me. I work food deliveries so drive around certain areas, just want it to scan those rather than all of So. Cal. Thanks. If you can give a little help, i'd appreciate it. But I have come further along than I thought i'd be. I am loving this scanner.
@@monitoringreviews Yea. pulls up lots of stuff around me, just have to figure out how to weed out the areas I don't work. I am a hobbiest stringer, so don't need things that are a 20 minute drivers. There are stringers here on just about every corner.
@@mikecarter8880 One thing that will help you get rid of a lot of unwanted stuff is going to Menu>Set Service Types> and then turning off everything you don't want to hear, like EMS Talk, Corrections, Business, etc.
@@monitoringreviews Thanks. I ended up using the sentinal software. When I first tried to look for the channels I needed couldn't find them, but finally found them. But that was easier than trying to figure out how to add favorites to the sds100. Really seems like it should be easier. But loving the scanner.
Nice video. On the SDS100 can I change the service channel colors? I mean make the polce channels show blue, the fire dept channels show red? If so I don't see how to do it.
Are you still liking this scanner? I'm curious to see if you have had any issues over the years. I've heard several very critical reviews about this scanner and they all agree that it's overpriced and not sensitive to anything but the 700 to 800 mhz channels.
Hey there! I notice you have LAPD City (STRS)...Security (SEC) and Security division -TAC Simulcast. I'm using the BCD996P2 and have been trying to program this radio, for the last week now nothing has come up so far. Using FreeScann software and uploading those sites you have on your radio, my scanner hasn't picked a thing. The area I'm trying to monitor is Southwest however, it doesn't show up as a site, I only get the following. East. Northeast. West. South. Site 1 Site 8 Can you do a video on programing my radio in the LA area LAPD, EMS, and Sheriff frequencies? Detective and TAC channels are great to listen to, can I program them into my radio? Lastly, I would like to program frequencies into individual banks and give them names, this radio is very confusing on how to get that done. They sent me the manual in french and, in very small print, I can't even see the letters. Man, I have done just about everything to program this thing, and have heard nothing so far. Oh, I did hear (154.665) sounded like a helicopter following some guy around town, and (506.96250)...Wilshire. Need help!
I've got the BC125. Would like to find a decent antenna for it. IMO, it's ok but the little rubber ducky antenna IMO isn't giving me the best reception. I was wondering with Software-Defined "scanners" were going to start showing up. IMO though, for the price, I'd just spend HALF the money and get a HACKRF one and call it a day. Great review though. I ran across this scanner in my spam box and thought I'd check it out. Thanks for the video.
Hi Matt. Very informative review. Been a while since I've been in the market for a new scanner. Kind of been out of the hobby for a while. Would you recommend buying from a company that could do the firmware update and also program it before they ship it. I live in Maryland if that makes any difference. Thanks for any imput.....Joe
Not that this comment will be seen by anybody including the original content creator but I had to get rid of the 436 I had because it sucks when it came to simulcast and all that stuff because it is hardware-based compared to the SDS 100 that is all SDR based so that one works good because at least I have my BC 15x to be able to Listen to Conventional stuff if I need any conventional monitoring as I used the sds100 for trunking only to monitor my local systems and other systems that I have
How about a link for the nearest Plasma center to be able pay for these suckers. My goodness; this going digital and the various modes is ridiculous, it's not like we're running out of bandwidth to require it - mostly in my area the frequencies are DEAD silent. I digress... Great review for both this and the SDS200.
Thank you for posting this video. I have been debating between this scanner and the 436. The cost is what has had me leaning to the 436. But after this video, my decision is made. Can I borrow $650? lol. The 7/900 antenna you use, how well does it do on vhf conventional systems? I live in a county where they use VHF but volunteer as a firefighter for a dept. that uses LCRA at 700 (the reason I want it, I HATE NOT KNOWING WHATS GOING ON). Thanks again.
Thomas Bingham these scanners retain value pretty well so I’d just buy it now if you have the money. It won’t drop significantly anytime soon since it’s a new scanner. I just got the 436 thinking it was the latest one still but didn’t know this was out. I ordered this anyway and will compare the two for a bit and maybe sell one. The 436 is working good so far and takes AA batteries but it’s a bummer you can’t charge and use the scanner at the same time on the 436.
Hi is it time to do a follow up on your scanners looks like it’s been a couple years! Thanks, how have the SDS scanners held up for you,do think anything new will be coming? Any tips and tricks you can share with us?
Very helpful video, thanks for posting. On the SDS100 you can easily enter your local zip code and start receiving traffic in minutes, as you know. I've noticed on scanner dealer sites one can pay a fee per county to have the scanner pre-programmed for you. What's your opinion on the value of dealer programming , is it worth it for the scanner purchaser of a SDS100 or a waste of money?
Frankly, I refuse to pay what these guys want for programming. I will keep watching all the videos I can find, and keep plodding along. I have an sd200 that I just got a week ago. I used the zip code thing, eliminated everything but the police stuff, and am happy with that while I try to understand how to do the other stuff like color programming, etc.
Trucker here, thinking about buying this model but im curious and you seem knowledgeable: can one set this up to scan and air whatever is going on near you without input from the user? I run 500-650 miles a day and dont wanna have to actually mess with it constantly, just wanna have it in the background? It sounds like thats the idea but most people dont have that concern so I just wanna make sure this isnt gonna be half useless to me
can this be plug into ac adapter and listen to the scanner or it has to be with the battery my old radio shack scanner is plug into a wall then when i want to go to the garage the batteries take over so it can be used both ways
I’m going To eventually buy this scanner, if I take my microSD card from my home patrol 1 and put it in the SDS-100 will it recognize all my data or is the data on that card only compatible in the home patrol 1 unit?
Why can’t they make scanners for STUPID people like me??!! These days, you have to have a masters degree in computer science just to operate the damn thing!! I miss the good old days of scanning! You bought a frequency guide from RadioShack...You looked up the frequency you wanted… You entered it into your scanner...Hit save...And your DONE.
@@dr.danielkester9313 It is the same with Metal Detectors since the very good ones now have microprocessors and sophisticated signal processing software. Took me 6 months plus to get used to my Minelab Nox 800 metal dectector. Now I have an SDS100 coming in next week and suspect I will be facing a steep learning curve. But like my metal detector you can go into some simple modes and be hunting for coins, rings, relics right off the bat. I am guessing you can just do something with the SDS100 like put in your zip code and select the radios from the RR database and start scanning. Not sure, but I hope that is the case. I am finding that modern metal detectors and modern scanners are very much alike in that they are all about separating good signals from the background of noise.
Modern Metal Detecting I ended up getting the SDS200 and happy that I did, great scanner. I’m also a ham operator and into metal detecting (I have a Whites MXT Pro). Lots of places to metal detect here in Arizona (when it’s not 115 degrees). Both scanning and metal detectors can make is easy to just turn on, enter your zip code and go but with a little knowledge you can really improve both.
I don’t understand why no one ever explains how to use the multiple functions on keys: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,8 and how to access them. What are the two lights at the top right side for, alert but what alerts? Of course the yes and no keys were explained. Everyone avoids the how to explanations on the previously stated.
A radio site can have many many frequencies. You would be programming it non-stop. You see, a typical city uses a trunked system, that all services share. Not like the old days when they had a frequency for dispatch, another for car to car. These days, everyone is using a group of frequencies, that are shared, and no one is ever on a specific frequency. THe key to all this, is each service (PD, Fire, Water, Dog Catcher) have unique ID's (digital) that the scanners can follow. If you do not want the Dog Catcher, tell the scanner to ignore him. He is using the exact same frequencies as Fire, who have their unique ID. THE BEST WAY TO UNDERSTAND THE PROGRAMMING, IS TO LEARN ABOUT THE RADIO SYSTEMS. Once you understand that a single police department is using 21 frequencies, of which all are required to to successfully monitor, then it all comes together. A single transmission changes frequency constantly. Trunking. The beauty here, you simply enter the system you want to monitor, like "Anytown PD", and the radio does the rest. Otherwise, you would have to program hundreds of frequencies, and also program the trunking information. The modern scanners are amazing, once you unlearn the old ways.
I must have around 20 scanners I've collected over the past few decades. And they are all in the closet. Back in the late '80s I bought an 800Mhz scanner before they blocked the cellular frequencies. That was some fun listening. But my primary reason for having scanners was to listen to the police. That is no longer possible in my area. Since they went digital, all their audio transmissions are encrypted. Plus they don't use much audio anymore. Most communications between the police and dispatchers and other police is data. It is done over computers in their vehicles, and transmitted by encrypted radio. So unless you want to listen to the local water department, taxi dispatchers, or the drive through at a close by fast food place, there really isn't anything out there to listen to. I am a private pilot, and the last thing I want to listen to is the air bands. I wish there was a way to fly that didn't require even dealing with them. There is just no way I can justify paying that kind of money for a scanner when there is nothing out there that I want to listen to. I am already sitting on several thousand $$$ worth of scanners (new prices) that are now pretty much worthless.
I don't have any technical proof to give you, however every base/mobile unit I have ever had, performs better than its handheld counterpart. I believe it has something to do with the size of the unit itself. It allows manufacturers to move certain parts inside the radio away from each other to prevent interference as well as provides a larger ground plane. Is it a significant difference? In some cases, yes. In some no. It just depends on the unit I guess.
Another question I I have. I follow LA police chases and some scanner followers on Twitter. Chase going on, PD switched a frequency the twitter user does not have, another user posted what it is: 45.4200 and not figuring how to manually enter it. Thanks again. I've done google searches on questions I am asking, most are sentinal related.
You can store the frequency manually. Press Menu>Manage Favorites> Select the fav list you want to enter the radio and press enter. Select Review/Enter System, select system, edit department, enter department, edit channel, then new channel. Then you can enter your channel info. You will have to import this into sentinel or it will be overwritten. So next time you use Sentinel, read from scanner first.
So hard making a decision with conflicting reviews online about SDS series. Some guys are not happy that it doesn’t even pick up analog signals well compared to 125AT, others rave it’s the best at everything. 🤷♂️
Monitoring Reviews I would buy the 125AT but rumor has it that my police department will be transitioning from analog to all digital by 2021 and 125 won’t be useful by then. I’m thinking if 325p2 might be a better option or hopefully SD series will have software problems smoothed out soon.
If the 125AT will pick up your local departments, being able to use it for almost 2 years before they switch over would be good. You can get a lot of use out of a radio in 2 years. Only be out $100 and who knows what radios will be out 2 years from now. But the 325 is a great radio as well.
With Police now encrypting their frequencies, I feel like we are reaching the end of an era. I still remember my realistic scanner that could pick up cell phones and wireless home phones lol the good old days.
Yeah, here in the UK near everthing has gone digital, pickings are real slim. A limit search normally just reveals lots of digital noise. If you are into listening to aircraft you can fill your boots, and listening to hams moan about the weather..so much of the real entertainment has gone encrypted. Sad to see it go.
It is the same in the Netherlands. All digital. There is seriously nothing interesting to listen to anymore.
You can still listen to digital- but encrypted digital is not going to happen.
It should be a right at least in the US to know what’s going on with the people who’s salary we pay
@@MrRadiorobot Just because it'd digital, doesn't mean it's encrypted though. This radio can also handle digital channels of course. I don't know how common encrypted is in the UK but you can look it up and see.
Wow Matt!! I feel like a kid in a candy store when you point out all the BELLS & WHISTLES on this gadget!!
I got the SDS 100 back in November 2023. I had Uniden program it for me. It seems to do good. I think my Radio Shack Pro 96 is a little better. I had the Pro 96 programed for me by a Firman that lives here in town. I'm up here in North East Ar. Jonesboro. So when you stared talking about AWIN I thought You must live in Ar. Glad you made this video. It's the only one I have found that goes into great detail about the radio. Thanks!
Love the Review. I have the 436 with all the upgrades and cannot afford to get the SD 100. But I love how clear the display on the 100 looks. Living in The Bronx New York there are a zillion Police and Fire and EMS to listen to but after years of listening to them I got bored with them. I do enjoy listening to the Security in my complex of building where I live and to the Mall and stores. I find it interesting hearing them talk and the things they talk about.I also enjoying going to new places and covertly using the scanner to find the frequencies they use to communicate. I guess I like the hunt. I put the 436 in Close Call mode and set the scanner to record. Most of the time I am also listening with my ear phones. The scanner is in a pocket or side pouch hidden from view. I may even act like I am listening to music by moving my head. It is awesome when you hear chatter when on the hunt. I try to verify that the chatter is coming from the store or mall by listening for it coming from Security or store personnel radios. Once I have the frequency I will add it to my scanner frequencies. Such is my life but it gives me something to look forward to when I go shopping with the wife.
Good info. I think we all enjoy the hunt when using the scanners. I like listening to airband. I've heard some interesting things on there over the years. It's usually just giving altitude, and ride conditions. But every now and then they will call with a medical emergency or an unruly passenger. Take care. Thanks for the comment!
For Alex , The BC996P2 is a VERY SOLID radio with a great viewing screen with many colors to choose from. It is a great receiver, I monitor NYPD and FDNY in Ct 70 miles NorthEast of New York.
Congratulations - you have good antenna equipment. And in practice, what is the serif distance through the close call function of a portable radio station working closely for transmission? I caught on 436 in the battlefield at 200m
I just bought this scanner yesterday and it’s seriously the best scanner I’ve had. I’ve had the homepatrol 1, various uniden analog scanners, BCD996P2, digital RadioShack scanner, other uniden portables; but this thing is awesome. I live in Phoenix, AZ and scanning here is known to be incredibly difficult, but this is VERY easy to use and well worth the money. 100%.
That is great to hear! It is an awesome scanner!
I'm also in Phoenix, AZ. There is nothing worth listening to here now.
@@geraldscott4302 what do you mean? Nearly all dispatch channels arent encrypted.
This is the Best Uniden SDS 100 video hands down, there is another out there that's an hour and a half it was a complete waste time, great job with this video !! Thank You -
Thank you very much! Do you have the SDS100 or are you looking to get one?
My SDS comes in today, most of the Uniden radios you displayed in your video I own. Your video is awesome to now get me started with the radio out of the box - Thanks Again for the clear, concise video. - Tony
Awesome! I love getting a new radio! I know you're excited to get it. Let me know what you think about it once you've had the chance to play with it some.
Im liking that.. im still using the BC125AT .. thanks partner 🤜🏻🤛🏻
Really great video! I just got my SDS-100. I'm loving it so far. 800 MHz is incredible. Thank you for making these vids!
Nice review- Thank you! My SDS100 was ordered today. I have a 536 at home, but needed something for my commute to work, and my work may have me change roles if we encounter a multi-jurisdictional incident, so it would be nice to have something at my desk if things are developing...
Awesome! Congrats! I think you will really enjoy the SDS100. When you get it, let me know what you think!
Nice looking scanner which performs well on digital trunking but insensitive on analog frequencies. Price is a bit high for a scanner that monitors less than a 436HP. I hope Uniden improves on this 1st Gen IQ SDR design.
I received my sds100 last week. To replace my pro 106. 2 weeks ago I tried the Unication G4. I did not like the g4. For one thing it was not programmed the way I requested. I asked the "pro" some questions regarding my issues and could not get answers. I called Unication tech support twice with no responce. Sent the g4 back. Received the sds100 and very happy with simulcast reception. I also got the remtronics 800 antenna. I programmed it using zip code and Butels536 software and sentinel software. Still navigating the options but love the reception. One county is not close and it past the test. I live in NY and ordered from Scannermaster. Free shipping no tax. 🤓😁👏🖒
The SDS100 is a great scanner!
I just purchased this. Just waiting till it arrives.
This overview is about as good as it gets. The thumbs down people must just be Nihilist.
Excellent review and how-to video. Thank you very much!
Glad you liked it. Do you have the SDS100?
This video was really helpful to someone like me (55yrs with ADD). I’d have paid $29.99 for your video back in the day when DVDs were sold with these “how-to” videos. Your voice and communication style made listening easier.
Downloaded this on liked and subscribed.
Thanks Matt for the great review and tutorial. I just picked up this radio from Ham Radio Outlet in Anaheim, California. They gave me a pretty good price of $599.00 after knocking off $50.00 for driving down and picking up in-store. Yes, I did pay tax, but it still seemed like a good deal. The manual was a little confusing so I appreciate the way you went through every feature step-by-step. I think this is a great scanner.
Hey Matt I like you to review review reviews on your scanners
This was a great review. Your camera work is good and clear and more importantly, the information you give is very useful and thorough. The audio is very good as well which is important to me as I have difficulty hearing. Thank you for a great review.
Thank you for the kind feedback. I appreciate it!
That was an awesome review. I'm ready to get one. My local towns are encrypted. But lots of out lying areas including NJSP are still in the clear. Would you be able to "coach" me up on some?
Thank you
Ok so, my last scanner was the TRX-1. I decided to go with the SDS100. And Oni64 you are totally right. Pretty soon the law is going to make it hard for us "Ambulance Chasers" to listen in on the action. But until then I'm going to enjoy the action while I can.
Holy balls!!! My dad has always handed me a pre programed scanner for years now. I have 3 of the handheld models you showed us, the most recent being the one you are demonstrating. I know absolutely nothing about how to use these except for turning it on and listening. When i have problems, my dad is my guy. I have so much to learn because unfortunately my pops ain't gonna be around forever @((( thanks for the vid. Subbed
Your father's beautiful child! Why do my adult children not delve into my knowledge, even though I showed them everything.
Great video... your the best.. everybody should take notes.. very detailed and informative about a new sophisticated device and your the only one that has such a video..I just ordered one and this video is my manual...
I appreciate the kind words!!!
WOW - What an incredible video - THANK YOU!! Really impressed with the overview is perfect for a new owner of an SDS100. Look forward to more videos. This is a great long full coverage video. Would love to see some short videos on things like GPS hookup and use in a mobile setup...etc. Thanks again. Are those colors you have custom or was that default on the COLOR Trunk Detail Screen?
Thank you! If the screen was anything other than black and white, it would be custom colors.
This was an outstanding demonstration of the sds100. I have one and enjoy monitoring AWIN here in Arkansas.
Great Review , I am truly impressed by the capabilities of the SDS100. I see you are a fellow Arkansan
Thank you.. I am about to purchase one of these. I stopped because the programming seemed overwhelming compared to my 15 year analog trunking 800 MHz... You made it seem a lot more user friendly. But I have come to the conclusion that this system is very vast in it's capacity. I will simply have to take a day at a time. Oh... how many years you think before it is outdated with new bands..
I think this scanner will be good for several years. Most scanners can be used for years to come. The change in radio systems come from time to time and there’s no way to predict that.
@@monitoringreviews ten four much obliged sir.
No problem. Let me know if I can help you.
It seems to me you know a lot about scanners I appreciate you sharing your knowledge with us what I'm looking for is to get into the encryption code people says it's illegal it is not to get on there and monitor if you can get in there it's perfectly legal
Hey neighbor! Union County, Arkansas here. Very surprised to see a very local CZcamsr and scanner hobbyist when researching scanners.
I’m almost decided on buying the SDS100. It will be my first scanner in 12 years. I was a dispatcher many many years ago, and am looking to get back to monitoring local radio traffic as a hobby. I think the SDS100 would be a good starting point, because it’s portable and I can use it in the truck or at home.
Most scanner programming lingo is all foreign to me anymore, since the switch to digital, but I’ve been doing a lot of research. I’ve noticed that most of Union County has converted to MotoTRBO DMR (I think), and I know that UCSO uses AWIN as a secondary radio. RadioReference.com doesn’t indicate that any of the frequencies are encrypted, but I’m still not 100% convinced. Are you aware of any encryption in Union County? UCSO, El Dorado PD, El Dorado FD/EMS, AGFC, ASP and AWIN will be my main reason for purchasing a scanner. It would be pointless to make such an investment if any of these agencies frequencies are encrypted.
AWIN is not encrypted as far as I know. I would be willing to bet that the MotoTRBO is encrypted. Everything that uses MTROBO in every county surrounding me including Drew uses encryption.
Monitoring Reviews I found a post on radioreference forums from back in April 2019 where a user indicated that they were listening to Union County SO and El Dorado Police and Fire MotoTRBO DMR frequencies. Check it out and see if you think they mean that they are non-encrypted:
forums.radioreference.com/threads/union-county.383059/post-3111283
I miss the scanners with like 8 channels & flashing lights lol
With CRYSTALS LMAO
Thanks for taking the time to make this helpful video . I just watched your video and was going to buy it but then I just saw they are indeed , as you mentioned , putting out the Uniden SDS200 bass/ mobile unit . Price , photo and specs are not available but the Uniden web-site does state there will be enhancements to the SDS100 ... So I think I will wait a bit before I decide on the which model I want .
Thank you. I don’t blame you for waiting.
Just watched your video. Great information, great presentation, well explained! And yes, I will be getting the SDS100 pretty soon. Thank you, Michael in Garland,TX
Michael Gage don't buy it because now most police frequencies are going to be encrypted and it's impossible to listen to because no one has produced a encrypted police scanner if they do you won't be able to afford it maybe you can but I haven't seen a encrypted police scanner
The best review I've found on this scanner! Thank you! Just picked it up but getting an error when it tries to update. I will try again soon.
Thank you! I appreciate the kind words. What type of error are you getting?
When updating the firmware, it times out. I turned off my AV and firewall,
thinking this was the reason, but still getting the "timed out" error. The database was able to update with no issue. I have version 1.04.01.
Updated with no issue today!
Great to hear!!
I would like to see a video of how to do Priority ID scanning and what the display shows when this feature is enabled.
Wow, what a nice scanner! Thanks for the overview !
Thanks for such a thorough and detailed review. Very well done.
Thank you. I appreciate that. Do you have the SDS100?
Not yet, but I'm selling my 536hp to fund the SDS100.
Nice. I think you’ll be pleased with the SDS100. Its a great radio. Let me know what you think when you get it.
Well it’s been a while since you did a scanner review that I can find, sure hope you will be doing an update on your scanners pros and cons. Please let us know if you have something in the works!, Thank you
I have a 436hp right now and it works ok. I monitor Arkansas wireless information network and in my area we have simulcast and it causes things to be not understandable sometimes. I plan on getting the sds100 soon because it is supposed to work better with simulcasting and it seems superior in many other areas. I’ve had the 436 since March so I’m thinking it’s about time for an upgrade to what seems like the ultimate handheld scanner. And this was also a great in depth review that helped me understand this scanner more.
I bought my SDS in June and thought I knew a lot about it, man was I wrong. I will have to watch your video several times to learn more about the features. Thanks for taking the time, I hope you will do more. 🤞
The antenna you are using do you have a link or did I miss it?
I plan on it! Thanks. What’s your favorite feature on the scanner so far?
Monitoring Reviews I like the detailed display, I see you added noise and error to your display what are the reasons for doing that? What details on the display do you delete to add them? Thanks
ERR is the the percentage of digital data that decodes with an error. It gives me an idea signal quality. 0 indicates you're getting the best possible audio quality. Higher ERR rate, the more the audio will degrade and garble. According to UPMAN on a RadioReference.com post "Note that NOISE is the absolute value of the output of the digital audio high-pass filter. There is no "unit" associated with it. Basically, it is a level corresponding to the amount of high-frequency audio present in the demodulated signal. The higher the number, the more high-frequency audio is present." And I can't recall what (if anything) I removed to add those 2 items on my screen. Hope that helps.
Basically, I added them to look cool :)
Great video, Matt! Thanks for such a detailed yet straightforward video. Keep up the great work!
Thank you. I appreciate the kind words. Do you have the SDS100 or plan to get one?
Monitoring Reviews I actually just ordered one! I use an APX8000 for my usual monitoring since most everything in LA is P25 conventional. But my existing scanners (346xt/BCT15) are snaking only, it was time to upgrade. Your video was the reason I switched.
Awesome! I hope you enjoy the new radio.
Very curious about this radio. In close call mode, will it “capture” digital signals and decode color codes etc?
If you are close to the signal it will capture the signal and show digital codes. It sure about color codes tho
This is a very good Review way better than that silly Scanner School guy who is clueless. A couple of notes. You show all the colors you can choose but then you kept defaulting back to a single color. Does that affect batter life such as using multiple colors. I was gonna asked about the battery life but you finally covered that at the very end. You made mention of it picking and auto scanning stuff that you did not want to monitor including the next state but if you set your RANGE less then shouldn't that take care of it. Maybe change your range to only 5 miles.
Thanks!
Very helpful video. You provide answers to my questions as I started using this radio. Many thanks.
Awesome. Thank you! Glad it helped.
You are real good at explaining... great review/demo thanks
Thank you. I appreciate that.
Okay...I set my scan mode to detailed like you but when I exit and go back to my scan...it's still in simple mode..
Any solutions?
As far as performance on the sds100 and the b c d 436 is there any difference in the performance volume clarity?
One thing to Consider is , Scanner like Uniden and Whistler do not scan the Entire Radio Spectrum, they have very Noticeable gaps in coverage, and Scanners do Not scan below 25 MHz or above 1300 MHz .
However a Handheld Receiver can tune 29 KHz continually to 5 GHz ( cellular) locked out.
Scanners just pick up a Tiny Portion of the Radio Spectrum.
A good Handheld Communication Receiver is worthy of Consideration.
I agree. I really liked the Icom R6 and have always wanted an Icom R20 (now R30) to see how I would like them.
you are doing an awesome job brother... I have been subscribed to your channel for a long time. and I am very impressed with your channel
Thank you. I appreciate that. Do you have the SDS100?
Not yet but I am looking forward to it
It's a great radio for sure! What are you using now?
for my vhf frequencies high band med frequencies I am using my 396xt and my 536 at home and 436 is my goto for travel
Nice set up! Check out the BC125AT if you want an excellent VHF High Lr airband scanner. It is an excellent receiver. One of the best for those bands I’ve ever used. For around $85 I don’t think it can be beat. amzn.to/2QfodRt and paired with the Diamond RH77CA antenna, it is awesome amzn.to/2OlwJAV I don’t think there is a better combo for the price. (Affiliate links)
It's kind of late, but I just bought the SDS100 a month ago (Feb 2021), and this video has helped me a lot.
One thing that hasn't been covered is the purpose of the micro USB port. I'm using the later USB port to recharge the battery, but I haven't seen anything on what the micro USB port is for.
The reason I ask is because in another video, the author took the SD card out to program it on the desktop, then reinsert it and off we go. I'd like to not take the card out/in and instead use the micro USB port. Is there a way to do this?
I really appreciate your tour of the scanner. I actually got an sd200 but they are basically the same unit in different size 'boxes'. You kinda zipped through everything quickly but I've got something to go by now.
AWESOME 👍 tutorial!.I watched it 3 times as a point of reference. 👊
Thank you!
Thanks for the good review and explanation of features on this scanner. I will use your links.
Thank you. I appreciate that very much. 🙏🏻
Hi Matt, nice review. Do you prefer the SDS100 or SDS200 more? I know it’s been over a year now since you posted this but curious now that you have had it awhile. Thanks!
So I have a RadioShack Pro-197 Digital Trunking scanner, I’m looking for a handheld that would get the same stuff and I would like that without such a hefty price tag, any recommendations?
love seeing so many Arkansas hams and scanner enthusiasts on CZcams
Great video Thank you
Reception on a Scanner is the same either Handheld or Mobile Scanner, it’s all about the Antenna.
You can easily use a Handheld Scanner with a roof mounted antenna and it will perform the same as a mobile scanner with a roof antenna, it’s a question of space, and portability, I can easily disconnect my Handheld Scanner and use it in my car with trunk antenna or outside with a High Gain Triple band antenna. You really can’t make a mobile scanner portable, not practical.
All that said, Scanner are just OK for receiving, but a Communication Receiver will OUTPERFORM a Scanner easily, even if it’s a Handheld Receiver.
#1 - the Receiver is more sensitive and does NOT overload like a Scanner.
#2 - Receiver have built in Filters to reduce noise, specially with CW, Air AM band, and others.
# 3 - Receiver Today like the ICOM and AOR can Receive Digital Transmissions BETTER than a Scanner.
The limiting factor with Receivers is , they don’t Trunktrack, but can still listen to Digital mode.
Thanks for sharing
I like to know do this radio feel tough and rugged like a Motorola I've been waiting for years for Uniden to make a tough solid radio that doesn't feel like cheap plastic
It feels nice. It does not feel like a Motorola radio. It is a scanner and does have a plastic feel, although it is a nice feeling radio it is not as rugged as a professional radio.
I got one of the first SDS100, I preordered it, and i got the new battery in the mail yesterday, got about 8hrs out of i t
That larger battery is such a nice upgrade! I love getting 8 hours on a single charge.
What kind of Antenna are you using with the SDS100
So I bit the bullet. I can't say the manual for it is the best manual I have seen, didn't even tell me what direction to put the battery in, had to watch a video. Reading the manual and watching your vid. I must be missing something, while it is scanning, how do I quickly add that feed to a favorite. I think I have a favorite set up (0). Just trying to get the local things near me. I work food deliveries so drive around certain areas, just want it to scan those rather than all of So. Cal. Thanks. If you can give a little help, i'd appreciate it. But I have come further along than I thought i'd be. I am loving this scanner.
Glad you are liking it. Did you program by zip code?
@@monitoringreviews Yea. pulls up lots of stuff around me, just have to figure out how to weed out the areas I don't work. I am a hobbiest stringer, so don't need things that are a 20 minute drivers. There are stringers here on just about every corner.
@@mikecarter8880 One thing that will help you get rid of a lot of unwanted stuff is going to Menu>Set Service Types> and then turning off everything you don't want to hear, like EMS Talk, Corrections, Business, etc.
@@monitoringreviews Thanks. I ended up using the sentinal software. When I first tried to look for the channels I needed couldn't find them, but finally found them. But that was easier than trying to figure out how to add favorites to the sds100. Really seems like it should be easier. But loving the scanner.
@@mikecarter8880 It can be complicated until you get used to the file system. It is a very advanced scanner.
SDS100 pick up encrypted?
Great information on that scanner. But I just want to hear the local police like my 20th century scanners used to do.
Understand that. Lots of departments going encrypted now days.
@@monitoringreviews I suppose that's what ours did. Some people still get to hear them somehow.
Ahhhhhh AWIN. I will be listening again soon!!
Enjoyed the review and instruction...very helpful..👍🏼
Thank you
Great review. I want this so bad but I’m having trouble justifying the price. Someone help me out here lol.
I was debating buying the SDS200 for P25 and AWIN for Ashley/drew County but was told it wouldnt work. Thanks for the info!
It does work. I have one and listen every day to AWIN.
Nice video. On the SDS100 can I change the service channel colors? I mean make the polce channels show blue, the fire dept channels show red? If so I don't see how to do it.
Excellent video -lots of useful information Thank you very much Brad Fener
The handheld is really nice.
It’s a great radio
@@monitoringreviews I bought me the sds100 and 200. Great radios!!
Great review of the radio. Thanks
Thank you! Do you have one or are you thinking of getting one?
Monitoring Reviews reviewing to buy on. I thought your review was the best I've seen and was great to follow
I really appreciate the feedback! Let me know if you get one!
You are a great orator, thanks
Amazing review. Thank you
Are you still liking this scanner? I'm curious to see if you have had any issues over the years. I've heard several very critical reviews about this scanner and they all agree that it's overpriced and not sensitive to anything but the 700 to 800 mhz channels.
Hey there!
I notice you have LAPD City (STRS)...Security (SEC) and Security division -TAC Simulcast.
I'm using the BCD996P2 and have been trying to program this radio, for the last week now nothing has come up so far.
Using FreeScann software and uploading those sites you have on your radio, my scanner hasn't picked a thing.
The area I'm trying to monitor is Southwest however, it doesn't show up as a site, I only get the following.
East.
Northeast.
West.
South.
Site 1
Site 8
Can you do a video on programing my radio in the LA area LAPD, EMS, and Sheriff frequencies?
Detective and TAC channels are great to listen to, can I program them into my radio?
Lastly, I would like to program frequencies into individual banks and give them names, this radio is very confusing on how to get that done.
They sent me the manual in french and, in very small print, I can't even see the letters.
Man, I have done just about everything to program this thing, and have heard nothing so far.
Oh, I did hear (154.665) sounded like a helicopter following some guy around town, and (506.96250)...Wilshire.
Need help!
Thank you so much for this video! Very informative!
Thanks! Do you have the SDS100 or looking to get one?
Monitoring Reviews It came in the mail a few days ago. Your video helped me set it up and use it more efficiently.
Great!! What’s your favorite feature of the radio so far?
Yeah, i tried a 436 when they first came out and returned it, the screen was way to hard to read. Love mySDS100
SDS100 is awesome. The 436 is a good radio but the screen on the SDS100 is much better!
I've got the BC125. Would like to find a decent antenna for it. IMO, it's ok but the little rubber ducky antenna IMO isn't giving me the best reception. I was wondering with Software-Defined "scanners" were going to start showing up. IMO though, for the price, I'd just spend HALF the money and get a HACKRF one and call it a day. Great review though. I ran across this scanner in my spam box and thought I'd check it out. Thanks for the video.
Excellent video, thanks!
Hi Matt. Very informative review. Been a while since I've been in the market for a new scanner. Kind of been out of the hobby for a while. Would you recommend buying from a company that could do the firmware update and also program it before they ship it. I live in Maryland if that makes any difference. Thanks for any imput.....Joe
Not that this comment will be seen by anybody including the original content creator but I had to get rid of the 436 I had because it sucks when it came to simulcast and all that stuff because it is hardware-based compared to the SDS 100 that is all SDR based so that one works good because at least I have my BC 15x to be able to Listen to Conventional stuff if I need any conventional monitoring as I used the sds100 for trunking only to monitor my local systems and other systems that I have
Thanks for the great video.
How about a link for the nearest Plasma center to be able pay for these suckers. My goodness; this going digital and the various modes is ridiculous, it's not like we're running out of bandwidth to require it - mostly in my area the frequencies are DEAD silent. I digress... Great review for both this and the SDS200.
Ha ha, no doubt! they are expensive! Thanks
Thank you for posting this video. I have been debating between this scanner and the 436. The cost is what has had me leaning to the 436. But after this video, my decision is made. Can I borrow $650? lol. The 7/900 antenna you use, how well does it do on vhf conventional systems? I live in a county where they use VHF but volunteer as a firefighter for a dept. that uses LCRA at 700 (the reason I want it, I HATE NOT KNOWING WHATS GOING ON). Thanks again.
Thomas Bingham these scanners retain value pretty well so I’d just buy it now if you have the money. It won’t drop significantly anytime soon since it’s a new scanner. I just got the 436 thinking it was the latest one still but didn’t know this was out. I ordered this anyway and will compare the two for a bit and maybe sell one. The 436 is working good so far and takes AA batteries but it’s a bummer you can’t charge and use the scanner at the same time on the 436.
Glad it helped. It performs okay on VHF. But it’s not the best. The diamond RH77CA antenna is great for vhf high.
Why doesn’t anything come out Mac compatible, so frustrating!
I know. I wish someone would make Mac software for these scanners too
Hi is it time to do a follow up on your scanners looks like it’s been a couple years! Thanks, how have the SDS scanners held up for you,do think anything new will be coming? Any tips and tricks you can share with us?
Very helpful video, thanks for posting.
On the SDS100 you can easily enter your local zip code and start receiving traffic in minutes, as you know. I've noticed on scanner dealer sites one can pay a fee per county to have the scanner pre-programmed for you. What's your opinion on the value of dealer programming , is it worth it for the scanner purchaser of a SDS100 or a waste of money?
Frankly, I refuse to pay what these guys want for programming. I will keep watching all the videos I can find, and keep plodding along. I have an sd200 that I just got a week ago. I used the zip code thing, eliminated everything but the police stuff, and am happy with that while I try to understand how to do the other stuff like color programming, etc.
Awesome Review!
Thank you. I appreciate that
Trucker here, thinking about buying this model but im curious and you seem knowledgeable: can one set this up to scan and air whatever is going on near you without input from the user? I run 500-650 miles a day and dont wanna have to actually mess with it constantly, just wanna have it in the background? It sounds like thats the idea but most people dont have that concern so I just wanna make sure this isnt gonna be half useless to me
Awesome review. I purchased this radio today. My question is can you tell a difference in the stock antenna versus the 800 antenna?
can this be plug into ac adapter and listen to the scanner or it has to be with the battery my old radio shack scanner is plug into a wall then when i want to go to the garage the batteries take over so it can be used both ways
It can be powered
I’m going To eventually buy this scanner, if I take my microSD card from my home patrol 1 and put it in the SDS-100 will it recognize all my data or is the data on that card only compatible in the home patrol 1 unit?
Sorry. I’m not sure
Can I use this radio to not only monitor police when we're drag racing but when I'm out on my sail boat for marine and weather channels. Thanks
Why can’t they make scanners for STUPID people like me??!! These days, you have to have a masters degree in computer science just to operate the damn thing!! I miss the good old days of scanning! You bought a frequency guide from RadioShack...You looked up the frequency you wanted… You entered it into your scanner...Hit save...And your DONE.
Don't feel bad. I have a PhD, an extra class ham license and been scanning since the 70's and I feel dumb too.
@@dr.danielkester9313 It is the same with Metal Detectors since the very good ones now have microprocessors and sophisticated signal processing software. Took me 6 months plus to get used to my Minelab Nox 800 metal dectector. Now I have an SDS100 coming in next week and suspect I will be facing a steep learning curve. But like my metal detector you can go into some simple modes and be hunting for coins, rings, relics right off the bat. I am guessing you can just do something with the SDS100 like put in your zip code and select the radios from the RR database and start scanning. Not sure, but I hope that is the case. I am finding that modern metal detectors and modern scanners are very much alike in that they are all about separating good signals from the background of noise.
Modern Metal Detecting I ended up getting the SDS200 and happy that I did, great scanner. I’m also a ham operator and into metal detecting (I have a Whites MXT Pro). Lots of places to metal detect here in Arizona (when it’s not 115 degrees). Both scanning and metal detectors can make is easy to just turn on, enter your zip code and go but with a little knowledge you can really improve both.
I don’t understand why no one ever explains how to use the multiple functions on keys: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,8 and how to access them. What are the two lights at the top right side for, alert but what alerts? Of course the yes and no keys were explained. Everyone avoids the how to explanations on the previously stated.
A radio site can have many many frequencies. You would be programming it non-stop. You see, a typical city uses a trunked system, that all services share. Not like the old days when they had a frequency for dispatch, another for car to car. These days, everyone is using a group of frequencies, that are shared, and no one is ever on a specific frequency. THe key to all this, is each service (PD, Fire, Water, Dog Catcher) have unique ID's (digital) that the scanners can follow. If you do not want the Dog Catcher, tell the scanner to ignore him. He is using the exact same frequencies as Fire, who have their unique ID.
THE BEST WAY TO UNDERSTAND THE PROGRAMMING, IS TO LEARN ABOUT THE RADIO SYSTEMS. Once you understand that a single police department is using 21 frequencies, of which all are required to to successfully monitor, then it all comes together. A single transmission changes frequency constantly. Trunking.
The beauty here, you simply enter the system you want to monitor, like "Anytown PD", and the radio does the rest. Otherwise, you would have to program hundreds of frequencies, and also program the trunking information. The modern scanners are amazing, once you unlearn the old ways.
I must have around 20 scanners I've collected over the past few decades. And they are all in the closet. Back in the late '80s I bought an 800Mhz scanner before they blocked the cellular frequencies. That was some fun listening. But my primary reason for having scanners was to listen to the police. That is no longer possible in my area. Since they went digital, all their audio transmissions are encrypted. Plus they don't use much audio anymore. Most communications between the police and dispatchers and other police is data. It is done over computers in their vehicles, and transmitted by encrypted radio. So unless you want to listen to the local water department, taxi dispatchers, or the drive through at a close by fast food place, there really isn't anything out there to listen to. I am a private pilot, and the last thing I want to listen to is the air bands. I wish there was a way to fly that didn't require even dealing with them. There is just no way I can justify paying that kind of money for a scanner when there is nothing out there that I want to listen to. I am already sitting on several thousand $$$ worth of scanners (new prices) that are now pretty much worthless.
Early in the video, you commented that the handheld won't get the performance of the base mobile unit. Could you expand on that?
I don't have any technical proof to give you, however every base/mobile unit I have ever had, performs better than its handheld counterpart. I believe it has something to do with the size of the unit itself. It allows manufacturers to move certain parts inside the radio away from each other to prevent interference as well as provides a larger ground plane. Is it a significant difference? In some cases, yes. In some no. It just depends on the unit I guess.
4/22 - latest batch of these are back in stores - and being returned to stores because of a screen fit / light bleed issue.
Another question I I have. I follow LA police chases and some scanner followers on Twitter. Chase going on, PD switched a frequency the twitter user does not have, another user posted what it is: 45.4200 and not figuring how to manually enter it. Thanks again. I've done google searches on questions I am asking, most are sentinal related.
You can store the frequency manually. Press Menu>Manage Favorites> Select the fav list you want to enter the radio and press enter. Select Review/Enter System, select system, edit department, enter department, edit channel, then new channel. Then you can enter your channel info. You will have to import this into sentinel or it will be overwritten. So next time you use Sentinel, read from scanner first.
@@monitoringreviews That seems like a lot of work to just enter some numbers, I figured I was just missing something obvious, thanks!
So hard making a decision with conflicting reviews online about SDS series. Some guys are not happy that it doesn’t even pick up analog signals well compared to 125AT, others rave it’s the best at everything. 🤷♂️
The 125AT is the best receiving scanner I have ever used. The SDS100 is not on that level.
Monitoring Reviews I would buy the 125AT but rumor has it that my police department will be transitioning from analog to all digital by 2021 and 125 won’t be useful by then. I’m thinking if 325p2 might be a better option or hopefully SD series will have software problems smoothed out soon.
If the 125AT will pick up your local departments, being able to use it for almost 2 years before they switch over would be good. You can get a lot of use out of a radio in 2 years. Only be out $100 and who knows what radios will be out 2 years from now. But the 325 is a great radio as well.